You may have heard a friend or family member mention they want to hire a doula and you find yourself asking, “what’s that?” Believe me, as a doula, I get asked that question every day!
What is a doula?
Doulas work closely with expecting mothers and their families to provide non-medical support during pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. A doula can provide emotional, physical, and informational support. During your child’s birth, the medical team may have many things to focus on, while a doula focuses solely on the mother. Doulas will be familiar with your individual wishes and preferences and can be very helpful in creating a birth plan.
What do doulas do?
- Offer continuous support and encouragement
- Provide references and advice during pregnancy
- Help mother to understand medical procedures
- Suggest comfort measures such as positioning during labor/delivery
- Assist with creation of a birth plan
- Assist with breastfeeding
- Not a substitute for partners or spouse but another member of the team
Benefits of Hiring a Doula
- Higher satisfaction with the birthing experience
- The doula’s focus is on mom and partner
- Shorter labor time
- Lower rate of C-sections, epidurals, or medical interventions
- Lower rate of induction medications used
- Fewer pain medications used
- Moms feel more comfortable and confident
- Higher success rate with breastfeeding
Doulas act as an advocate for mothers and facilitate communication between care providers and families. They are available to provide birth support and/or postpartum support. There are several wonderful doulas throughout the state and in the Midlands. The support and encouragement they offer during pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period is truly amazing.